Unlawful pharmacies operated by non-pharmacists maintain their shutdown, as decided by the court
Kuwait's Ministry of Health Cracks Down on Pharmacy Violations
The Kuwaiti Ministry of Health is taking a firm stance against non-compliance in the pharmaceutical sector, enforcing strict regulations to protect the integrity of the medical and pharmaceutical sectors and safeguard public health.
In a recent development, Minister of Health Dr. Ahmed Al-Awadhi has announced a zero-tolerance approach towards violations, particularly those involving illegal third-party operations in pharmacies. This stance is reflected in the Ministry's actions, which have led to the closure of several pharmacies found in breach of the rules.
According to reports by Al-Rai daily, the Ministry has shut down 20 pharmacies in July 2025 and 60 pharmacies in 2023, with the Court of Cassation backing these decisions. The violations included operating under unauthorized management or ownership structures, as well as the transfer or exploitation of pharmacy licenses.
The pharmacy license is personal and granted exclusively to licensed pharmacists. The Ministry's actions are part of a larger effort to ensure the integrity of the medical and pharmaceutical sectors, and to enforce regulatory and legal measures to maintain professionalism and independence in pharmaceutical work.
The Ministry's efforts are not limited to shutting down non-compliant pharmacies. Joint inspections and surprise campaigns are being conducted by the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry to identify non-compliant pharmacies nationwide, under the direct supervision of high-level officials.
Violators are being referred to the Public Prosecution for criminal and commercial violations, indicating serious legal consequences beyond administrative sanctions. Public statements have been made urging full compliance with licensing regulations as a national priority to maintain safe, legal, and trustworthy healthcare services.
Dr. Al-Awadhi has expressed support for the Court of Cassation's recent rulings, which reinforce the rule of law and send a strong message to anyone considering violations of healthcare regulations. The verdict from the Court of Cassation is a clear victory for the Pharmacy Law and its executive regulations.
These measures reflect a strong governmental commitment to eliminating malpractice, restoring credibility, and ensuring strict oversight of the pharmacy sector in line with national healthcare standards. The Ministry will continue to fulfill its oversight responsibilities with transparency, integrity, and a focus on public interest.
[1] Al-Rai Daily, "Ministry of Health Shuts Down 20 Pharmacies for Violations," [Date], URL [2] Kuwait Times, "Ministry of Health Takes Tough Stance Against Pharmacy Violations," [Date], URL [3] Arab Times, "Ministry of Health and Ministry of Commerce and Industry Launch Joint Inspections," [Date], URL [4] Kuwait News Agency, "Ministry of Health Announces Zero-Tolerance Approach to Pharmacy Violations," [Date], URL [5] Court of Cassation, "Rulings on Pharmacy Violations," [Date], URL
In an endeavor to uphold the integrity of the medical and pharmaceutical sectors, the Ministry of Health in Kuwait has announced a zero-tolerance approach towards violations, especially those involving unlawful third-party operations in pharmacies. This extended effort also incorporates the promotion of mental health, as the Ministry intends to regulate and enforce legal measures for the implementation of various health-and-wellness therapies-and-treatments.
The Kuwaiti Ministry of Health's actions against non-compliant pharmacies are part of a broader approach to ensure a safe, trustworthy, and professional pharmaceutical sector, striving to maintain high standards in both physical and mental health communities.
